Love is good for the heart
Building loving relationships with the significant people in your life can sustain you emotionally and contribute to heart health. Here are five ways to strengthen the bond with your nearest and dearest.
Enjoy more romance
- Rekindle the spark. Think back to what brought you and your partner together, and the pastimes you enjoyed when you were first a couple. Could you work a little of that magic into your current lives? Or use it as the start of a special Valentine's Day celebration?
- Reach out and touch. Create a literal connection through the sense of touch. Take time for a hug when your partner arrives home. Hold hands more often.
Connect with family
- Dine together. Make a goal of eating dinner with your family more often. Or reinstate the traditional Sunday dinner - and invite the extended family from time to time.
Deepen good friendships
- Do nothing, together. Sitting in the park, enjoying a cup of tea, knitting in silence, or just being - everything is more special in the company of a good friend.
- Pour your heart out. Opening up and making oneself vulnerable can deepen a friendship.